Groz-Beckert, a leading provider of textile machinery components, has partnered with German circular knitting machine builder Mayer & Cie. to develop innovative solutions for the industry. Over the past years, the two companies have worked together to optimize the Relanit Sinker SNK-F and introduce the LCmax™ energy-saving needles.
The main focus of these joint developments is to enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve process reliability. Groz-Beckert offers various options to machine builders interested in collaboration to develop new products or optimize existing ones. The Groz-Beckert Technology and Development Center (TEZ) serves as a framework for co-development projects.
In June 2023, Groz-Beckert showcased some of the successful outcomes of this partnership under the theme “Innovation through cooperation” at ITMA in Milan. Two new developments, achieved in collaboration with Mayer & Cie., were unveiled in Asia at ITMA Asia in November 2023.
One significant achievement of this collaboration is the optimized Relanit Sinker SNK-F, which boasts an integral spring with an adapted spring force. This improvement ensures smooth operation, increased process reliability, and improved loop structure. Furthermore, it extends the service life of the sinkers, reducing costs and making the process more sustainable.
The second breakthrough is the LCmax™ energy-saving needle, developed to address the industry’s growing demand for sustainable production. This needle features a wave-shaped shank geometry, which minimizes contact area and friction, resulting in reduced machine temperature and up to 20% energy savings compared to standard needles. This energy efficiency enhancement enables the machine to operate at maximum speed without compromising productivity.
Throughout these projects, Groz-Beckert and Mayer & Cie. embraced a holistic approach, involving not only Applications Engineering and Construction but also the Sales and Purchasing departments. The collaboration was characterized by openness, constructiveness, partnership, and goal orientation. The successful results benefit the customers of both companies, who can now enjoy improved performance, energy savings, and cost efficiency.
